While the 2023 NFL Draft is still far off in the distance, players that will be drafted early are on the field now. Each week presents unique matchups for draft prospects and this week is no different. Here are NFL Draft prospects to watch in college football week 3 recap.
1. Jake Haener, QB, Fresno State Bulldogs
Fresno State dropped a tough one to USC, 45-17. What made matters worse was that Jake Haener was carted off the field with an injury that looks like it may be long term. Before the injury, Haener completed 10 of 18 passes for 117 yards, one touchdown and one interception.
The most important thing is for Haener to get back healthy. It wasn’t his greatest game, but he has played well against good competition in the past. He is one of many quarterbacks who will be jockeying for position in the 2023 NFL Draft class because of COVID rules on extra eligibility and others who stayed for another year to increase their draft stock.
2. Justin Flowe, LB, Oregon Ducks
Justin Flowe did not end up playing after sustaining an ankle injury. He suited up but stayed on the sidelines.
Flowe’s injuries are concerning, but he has talent. He needs to get way more reps before NFL teams would be comfortable selecting him early in the 2023 NFL Draft.
3. Devon Achane, RB, Texas A&M Aggies
Texas A&M needed to rebound after losing to Appalachian State in week 2. They were able to do so by defeating Miami 17-9. The Aggies were able to establish the run with Devon Achane, as he had 18 carries for 88 yards, which helped them win a low-scoring game.
Achane was able to show his speed and quickness in this game. His movement can be described as explosive. He isn’t the biggest running back, but he can contribute in an NFL backfield with his skills. Achane is likely going to be a day two or early day three pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
4. Zion Tupuola-Fetui, Edge, Washington Huskies
Washington was able to showcase their talents on national television Saturday night. They defeated no. 11 Michigan State 39-28 and looked pretty good doing so. Tupuola-Fetui did not produce much in this game, as he had just one tackle.
The one tackle adds to a lackluster season for Tupuola-Fetui. He has not been able to recover from all his injuries and has just four tackles on the season. Until he can prove to play well this season, his stock will stay pretty low.
5. Corey Durden, DL, NC State Wolfpack
NC State had a home game against Texas Tech and came away with a 27-14 win. The win helps keep them ranked pretty highly on the season. Their defense really stepped up to limit the Texas Tech offense. Corey Durden contributed to that, even if the statline will just show one quarterback hurry.
Durden had the hurry, but also opened up the rest of the defense to make plays. Defensive tackles aren’t always the most productive players, but Durden did his job well. He is currently projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Make sure to check out our NFL Draft page for more news and updates like NFL Draft Prospects to Watch in College Football Week 3 Recap.
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